Optimisation of regional energy supply chains utilising renewables: P-graph approach

This paper presents a new method for regional energy targeting and supply chain synthesis. The method is based on a novel approach to the optimisation of renewable energy supply. A new algorithm for revealing energy supply chain clusters is introduced, described and illustrated by a case study. It has been developed on two levels. The first is a top-level supply chain network with lowest Carbon Footprint generated. It consists of a number of zone clusters. The definition of zones is provided: it can be e.g. a village or a town. Each zone is considered as a unit. At the second level is a supply chain synthesis carried out by P-graph based optimisation within each cluster. It provides a more detailed analysis. The use of the P-graph framework as a synthesis toolset provides a strong mathematically proven fundament for handling the complexity of the synthesis problem. It contributes to the optimal network design with a high computational efficiency. This approach contributes to the cleaner generation of energy from biomass, approaching CO2 neutrality as much as possible. It is beneficial for extending the use of biomass as a renewable source of energy. (C) 2010 Published by Elsevier Ltd.